Lactarius Hatsudake Fruiting Body Extract: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Lactarius Hatsudake Fruiting Body Extract?

Lactarius Hatsudake Fruiting Body Extract comes from the reddish pine mushroom Lactarius hatsudake, a prized edible species native to East Asian forests. The extract is rich in naturally occurring polysaccharides such as beta-glucans along with amino acids, vitamins and skin friendly lipids. Traditional foragers valued the mushroom for its comforting effect on skin after minor irritations, which piqued modern formulators’ interest during the clean beauty movement of the early 2000s. Today suppliers cultivate the mushroom under controlled conditions, harvest the fruiting bodies at peak maturity, dry them then perform a gentle water-glycerin or alcohol-water extraction. The resulting liquid is filtered, concentrated and preserved for cosmetic use. You will most often spot the ingredient in hydrating sheet masks, soothing toners, anti aging creams, overnight moisturizers, after-sun gels and barrier repair serums.

Lactarius Hatsudake Fruiting Body Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Formulators turn to this mushroom extract for several helpful roles in topical products

  • Skin Conditioning: The mix of beta-glucans, amino acids and vitamins helps keep skin soft and supple while supporting a healthy microbiome which translates into a fresher, more resilient complexion.
  • Emollient: Its natural lipids fill in microscopic gaps between skin cells to smooth rough patches and reduce transepidermal water loss, leaving skin feeling velvety rather than greasy.
  • Skin Protecting: Antioxidant compounds and film-forming sugars create a light shield that defends against environmental stressors like pollution particles and dehydration, helping prevent early signs of aging.

Who Can Use Lactarius Hatsudake Fruiting Body Extract

This extract is gentle enough for most skin types. Sensitive, dry or mature skin often enjoys its soothing water locking qualities while normal, combination and even oily skin benefit from its light non greasy finish. Very acne prone users dealing with a specific sensitivity to fungal organisms should patch observe the ingredient’s effect, as it is still a mushroom derivative.

Because the extract is sourced from a plant based organism and no animal by products are needed during cultivation it is considered suitable for vegans and vegetarians, though buyers who follow strict guidelines may wish to confirm that any accompanying glycerin or preservatives in a finished formula also come from non animal sources.

No specific contraindications are reported for pregnant or breastfeeding women however this is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should run their full skincare routine past a qualified healthcare provider to be on the safe side.

Lactarius Hatsudake Fruiting Body Extract is not known to increase photosensitivity so daytime use is fine when paired with a broad spectrum sunscreen already recommended for daily wear.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Lactarius Hatsudake Fruiting Body Extract vary from person to person. The issues listed below are potential side effects that remain uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated.

  • Allergic reaction – itching, redness or hives can occur in individuals with an existing mushroom allergy
  • Contact dermatitis – rare cases of stinging or burning have been reported when the extract is combined with high levels of alcohol in a formula
  • Breakouts – over occlusive products that also contain heavy oils may trap debris and trigger blemishes even though the extract itself is lightweight
  • Interaction with potent actives – its hydrating sugars can enhance penetration of strong acids or retinoids layered on top which may increase irritation potential for very reactive skin

If you notice any unwanted reaction stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 out of 5. Lactarius Hatsudake Fruiting Body Extract is mostly water soluble and contains lightweight polysaccharides rather than pore clogging oils or waxes. Its natural lipids sit lightly on the skin and are present at low percentages in finished formulas, so the risk of blocked pores is minimal. This makes the extract generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. Only when paired with heavy occlusive ingredients could it indirectly contribute to congestion.

Summary

Lactarius Hatsudake Fruiting Body Extract conditions skin, acts as a mild emollient and builds a light protective barrier. Beta glucans draw in moisture and calm irritation, amino acids support repair while fine lipids smooth and soften. Although not yet as famous as hyaluronic acid or niacinamide it is gaining attention in hydrating masks and barrier creams, especially within clean beauty lines.

Current research and user reports show it to be very safe with low rates of irritation or allergy. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to patch test a product first to be sure your skin agrees with it.

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